Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation - What to Expect and Recovery Tips

Table of Contents

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib, is a common heart problem that affects millions of people worldwide. When someone has AFib, their heart beats irregularly and sometimes too fast. This can cause various uncomfortable symptoms, such as feeling like your heart is racing or fluttering, having trouble breathing, and feeling very tired. These symptoms can make daily life difficult and even increase the risk of serious health problems like stroke.

Fortunately, there are several ways to treat AFib, and one of the most effective is called catheter ablation. This treatment is a special medical procedure that doesn’t require major surgery. Instead, doctors use thin, flexible tubes called catheters to reach the heart and fix the areas causing the irregular rhythm. The goal of catheter ablation is to help the heart beat normally again, which can greatly improve a person’s quality of life.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. We’ll explain what the procedure is, how it works to treat AFib, and what patients can expect before, during, and after the treatment. We’ll also discuss how long it takes to recover from catheter ablation and provide some helpful tips for a smooth recovery. By understanding more about this procedure, patients and their families can feel more prepared and less anxious about the treatment process.

Understanding Atrial Fibrillation

Definition and Explanation of Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib, is a common heart rhythm problem. In this condition, the top chambers of the heart, called the atria, beat in a fast and irregular way. This irregular beating disrupts the normal flow of blood through the heart. As a result, people with AFib may feel their heart racing or fluttering, which is known as palpitations. They might also find it hard to catch their breath or feel very tired. AFib is not just uncomfortable; it can lead to serious health problems. When the heart doesn’t pump blood properly, it can cause blood clots to form. These clots can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. AFib can also make the heart work too hard over time, leading to heart failure.

Causes and Risk Factors

Many things can cause or increase the risk of developing AFib. High blood pressure is a common cause, as it puts extra strain on the heart. Problems with heart valves can also lead to AFib by changing how blood flows through the heart. Heart failure, where the heart becomes weak and can’t pump blood well, is another cause. Coronary artery disease, which happens when the blood vessels that supply the heart become narrow or blocked, can trigger AFib too. Sometimes, problems with the thyroid gland can cause AFib because the thyroid controls how fast the heart beats.

As people get older, their chance of having AFib goes up. Being overweight or obese can also increase the risk. Smoking is bad for the heart in many ways, including raising the risk of AFib. Drinking too much alcohol can trigger AFib episodes or make them worse. Knowing these causes and risk factors is important because it helps people understand how to lower their chances of getting AFib or how to manage it better if they already have it.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

AFib can feel different for each person. Some people might feel their heart racing or skipping beats. This feeling is called palpitations. Others might feel short of breath, especially when they try to do activities. Feeling very tired for no clear reason can also be a sign of AFib. Some people might feel pain or pressure in their chest. It’s important to know that not everyone with AFib feels symptoms. Some people only find out they have AFib when a doctor discovers it during a regular check-up.

To diagnose AFib, doctors usually start with a test called an electrocardiogram, or ECG for short. This test measures the electrical activity of the heart and can show if the heartbeat is irregular. The doctor might ask the patient to wear a small device called a Holter monitor for a day or two. This device records the heart’s activity for a longer time and can catch AFib episodes that might not happen during a short ECG test. Sometimes, doctors use a test called an echocardiogram, which uses sound waves to create a picture of the heart. This can show if there are any problems with the heart’s structure that might be causing AFib. Blood tests can help check for other health issues that might be related to AFib, like thyroid problems.

Treatment Options and Why Catheter Ablation is Chosen

There are several ways to treat AFib. Many people start with medications that help control how fast and regularly the heart beats. These medicines can make symptoms better and help the heart work more normally. Doctors often prescribe blood thinners to people with AFib. These medicines make it harder for blood clots to form, which lowers the risk of stroke. Some people might need to take these medicines for a long time.

When medicines don’t work well enough or cause bad side effects, doctors might suggest a procedure called catheter ablation. This treatment aims to fix the part of the heart that’s causing the irregular rhythm. Doctors often choose catheter ablation for people who still have AFib symptoms even when taking medicine. It’s also a good option for people who have a high risk of stroke or other problems from AFib. Catheter ablation can help some people stop taking AFib medicines or take less of them. This can be helpful because some AFib medicines have side effects that are hard to live with. While catheter ablation doesn’t always cure AFib completely, it often makes symptoms much better and helps people feel more normal.

What is Catheter Ablation?

Definition and Explanation of Catheter Ablation

Catheter ablation is a specialized medical procedure used to treat atrial fibrillation and other heart rhythm disorders. It is a minimally invasive technique that aims to restore a normal heartbeat by targeting and eliminating the source of irregular electrical signals in the heart. During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted through a blood vessel and guided to the heart. Once in place, the catheter delivers energy to create tiny scars on specific areas of heart tissue. These scars act as barriers, blocking the abnormal electrical signals that cause irregular heartbeats.

How it Works

The catheter ablation procedure works by precisely identifying the areas of the heart responsible for generating or maintaining the irregular heartbeat. Doctors use advanced mapping techniques to locate these trouble spots. Once identified, the catheter is positioned at these sites, and energy is applied to create controlled, small scars. These scars disrupt the faulty electrical pathways, preventing them from sending out irregular signals. As a result, the heart’s normal electrical system can take over, restoring a regular rhythm. The procedure is typically performed under sedation or general anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort and minimize movement during the delicate process.

Types of Catheter Ablation

There are several types of catheter ablation techniques, each using different forms of energy to create the necessary scar tissue:

Radiofrequency ablation: This common method uses heat energy to create scar tissue. The catheter tip heats up and burns small areas of heart tissue.
Cryoablation: Instead of heat, this technique uses extreme cold to freeze and destroy the problematic heart tissue. A special balloon filled with a cold liquid is often used in this method.
Laser ablation: This technique employs laser energy to create precise, small scars in the heart tissue.
Microwave ablation: Similar to radiofrequency ablation, this method uses microwave energy to heat and scar the tissue.

The choice of ablation type depends on various factors, including the specific type of arrhythmia, the patient’s overall health, and the doctor’s expertise and preference.

Benefits and Risks

Catheter ablation offers several potential benefits for people with atrial fibrillation. It can effectively restore a normal heart rhythm, reducing or eliminating symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Many patients experience a significant improvement in their quality of life after a successful ablation. Additionally, the procedure may reduce the need for long-term medication use and decrease the risk of complications associated with atrial fibrillation, such as stroke.

However, like any medical procedure, catheter ablation comes with certain risks. These can include:

Bleeding at the catheter insertion site
Infection
Damage to blood vessels or heart structures
Blood clots
Stroke
Heart attack (rare)
New or worsening arrhythmias
Damage to nearby organs (rare)

It’s important to note that while these risks exist, they are generally low, and most patients undergo the procedure without significant complications. Before deciding to have a catheter ablation, patients should have a thorough discussion with their healthcare provider about the potential benefits and risks. This conversation helps ensure that the patient makes an informed decision based on their individual circumstances and health goals.

Preparing for Catheter Ablation

Pre-procedure Preparation

Before the catheter ablation procedure, patients will go through a series of important tests to check their heart health. These tests help the doctor understand how serious the atrial fibrillation is and plan the best way to do the procedure. Some of the tests patients might have include:

Blood tests: These check for things like how well your blood clots and if you have any infections.
Chest X-rays: These give a picture of your heart and lungs to see if there are any problems.
CT scans: These provide detailed images of your heart from different angles.
Echocardiograms: These use sound waves to create a moving picture of your heart to see how it’s working.

Your doctor might also ask you questions about your medical history and any symptoms you’ve been having. It’s important to answer these questions honestly to help your doctor plan the best treatment for you.

Medication Adjustments

Before the catheter ablation, you might need to change some of your medicines. This is very important to make sure the procedure is safe and works well. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Blood thinners: You might need to stop taking these a few days before the procedure. This helps prevent too much bleeding during the ablation.
Heart rhythm medicines: Your doctor might tell you to stop taking these for a while before the procedure.
Other medicines: Some other medicines might also need to be stopped or changed.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions about your medicines. Don’t stop taking any medicine without talking to your doctor first. They will give you a clear plan of what to take and what to avoid before your procedure.

Fasting and Hydration Instructions

To prepare for the catheter ablation, you’ll need to follow some rules about eating and drinking:

Fasting: You’ll probably be told not to eat or drink anything for several hours before the procedure. This is to make sure your stomach is empty, which helps prevent problems with the anesthesia.
Hydration: Your doctor might tell you to drink extra water in the days before the procedure. This helps keep your body well-hydrated, which can make the procedure easier and safer.

Make sure to ask your doctor if you’re not sure about when to stop eating or drinking. They’ll give you clear instructions to follow.

What to Expect During the Procedure

On the day of your catheter ablation, here’s what you can expect:

You’ll change into a hospital gown and lie on a special table in the procedure room.
Nurses will connect you to machines that monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels.
You’ll be given medicine to help you relax or sleep during the procedure.
The doctor will clean and numb a small area on your skin, usually in your groin, neck, or shoulder.
A thin tube called a catheter will be inserted through a blood vessel in this area and guided to your heart.
The doctor will use special X-ray machines to see where the catheter is inside your body.
Once the catheter is in the right place in your heart, the doctor will use it to send energy to the areas causing the atrial fibrillation.
This energy creates small scars that help stop the irregular heartbeats.

The whole procedure usually takes a few hours. You won’t feel any pain during the ablation because of the medicine you’re given. After the procedure, you’ll be taken to a recovery area where nurses will watch you closely as you wake up.

The Catheter Ablation Procedure

Step-by-Step Explanation of the Procedure

Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation is a complex but well-structured procedure. Here’s a detailed look at what happens during the process:

Preparation: Before the procedure begins, the medical team prepares the patient carefully. They attach ECG (electrocardiogram) electrodes to the patient’s chest to monitor heart activity throughout the procedure. An intravenous (IV) line is inserted into a vein, usually in the arm, to administer medications and fluids. The patient may also receive a mild sedative to help them relax.
Catheter Insertion: Once the patient is ready, the doctor makes a small cut in the groin area or sometimes in the neck. Through this opening, they insert a thin, flexible tube called a catheter. Using special x-ray machines or other imaging tools, the doctor carefully guides the catheter through the blood vessels until it reaches the heart. This part of the procedure is painless for the patient.
Ablation: When the catheter is in the correct position inside the heart, the doctor begins the ablation process. They use the catheter to deliver energy to specific areas of the heart that are causing the irregular heartbeat. This energy can be in the form of heat (radiofrequency ablation) or extreme cold (cryoablation). The energy creates tiny scars on the heart tissue, which block the faulty electrical signals causing atrial fibrillation.
Monitoring: Throughout the entire procedure, the medical team closely watches the patient’s vital signs and heart activity. They use advanced monitoring equipment to see how the heart responds to the ablation in real-time. This constant monitoring helps ensure the procedure is effective and allows the team to quickly address any issues that may arise.

Anesthesia and Sedation Options

The type of anesthesia used during catheter ablation can vary depending on the patient’s needs and the doctor’s preference. Here are the main options:

Conscious Sedation: This is a light form of sedation where the patient remains awake but very relaxed. They may feel drowsy and might not remember much of the procedure afterward. This option allows the patient to communicate with the medical team if needed during the procedure.
General Anesthesia: Some patients receive general anesthesia, which means they are completely asleep during the procedure. This option is often used for longer or more complex ablations. The anesthesiologist carefully monitors the patient’s breathing and vital signs throughout the procedure.

The choice between conscious sedation and general anesthesia depends on factors like the patient’s overall health, anxiety levels, and the expected duration of the procedure. The doctor will discuss the best option with the patient before the ablation.

Potential Complications and How They Are Addressed

While catheter ablation is generally safe, like any medical procedure, it does carry some risks. Here are some potential complications and how they are managed:

Bleeding: There’s a small risk of bleeding where the catheter was inserted. The medical team checks this area frequently and applies pressure if needed to stop any bleeding.
Infection: Although rare, infections can occur at the catheter insertion site or in the bloodstream. To prevent this, the team uses sterile techniques and may give antibiotics before the procedure.
Blood Vessel Damage: Sometimes, the blood vessels used to reach the heart can be damaged by the catheter. The medical team uses imaging guidance to minimize this risk and can repair any damage if it occurs.
New or Worsening Arrhythmias: In some cases, the ablation might cause a new heart rhythm problem or temporarily worsen the existing one. The team monitors the heart closely during and after the procedure to detect and treat any new arrhythmias quickly.
Stroke: There’s a small risk that a blood clot could form and cause a stroke. To prevent this, patients receive blood-thinning medications before, during, and after the procedure.

To address these potential complications, the medical team closely monitors the patient during the procedure and in the recovery period afterward. They’re prepared to act quickly if any issues arise, ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient.

Recovery After Catheter Ablation

Immediate Post-procedure Care

After the catheter ablation procedure, patients are carefully monitored in a dedicated recovery room. This close observation helps medical staff ensure there are no immediate complications. Nurses and doctors keep a close eye on vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. Patients may feel groggy from the anesthesia and might experience some discomfort at the catheter insertion sites. The medical team provides pain management to address any discomfort and ensure the patient is as comfortable as possible during this initial recovery phase.

Pain Management

Effective pain management is a crucial part of the recovery process following catheter ablation. Patients may experience some discomfort or soreness, particularly at the catheter insertion sites. To address this, the medical team may provide various pain relief options. These can include over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. In some cases, stronger prescription pain medications might be necessary for short-term use. Patients are encouraged to communicate with their healthcare providers about their pain levels to ensure they receive appropriate pain management throughout their recovery.

Follow-up Appointments and Monitoring

After the catheter ablation procedure, patients will have several follow-up appointments scheduled. These appointments are important for monitoring the patient’s progress and addressing any concerns that may arise during recovery. During these visits, doctors may perform various tests to check how well the heart is functioning. They might use an electrocardiogram (ECG) to record the heart’s electrical activity or conduct blood tests to check for any issues.

In some cases, patients may be given a portable heart monitor to wear for a period of time after the procedure. This device, often called a Holter monitor, continuously records the heart’s activity over 24 to 48 hours or longer. It helps doctors see how the heart is responding to the ablation and can detect any irregular rhythms that might occur.

Lifestyle Changes and Medication Adjustments

Recovery from catheter ablation often involves making some temporary lifestyle changes. Patients are usually advised to avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise for a few weeks after the procedure. This helps prevent strain on the heart and allows the body to heal properly. Doctors may recommend gradually increasing physical activity levels as recovery progresses.

Patients might also need to make changes to their medications following the ablation. Some people may be able to reduce or stop certain heart medications, while others might need to continue or adjust their current medication regimen. It’s important for patients to follow their doctor’s instructions carefully regarding any medication changes. They should not stop or change any medications without first consulting their healthcare provider.

In addition to these changes, patients are often encouraged to adopt heart-healthy habits. This can include following a balanced diet, getting regular exercise once cleared by their doctor, managing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These lifestyle changes can help support long-term heart health and improve the overall success of the ablation procedure.

Recovery Tips and Timeline

Managing Fatigue and Discomfort

After a catheter ablation procedure, it’s common for patients to feel tired and experience some discomfort. To help manage these symptoms, it’s important to get plenty of rest and avoid pushing yourself too hard. Take naps when you feel tired and try to get a full night’s sleep. You may feel sore around the catheter insertion site, which is usually in the groin area. Using an ice pack for short periods can help reduce swelling and pain. Your doctor may also recommend over-the-counter pain medication to help with any discomfort. Remember to take it easy and listen to your body during this time.

Returning to Daily Activities

As you recover, you can slowly start getting back to your normal routine. Most people can return to work within a few days to a week, depending on how physical their job is. Start with light activities around the house and gradually increase what you do each day. It’s important to follow your doctor’s advice about when it’s safe to drive, which is usually after a few days. When you do go back to work or start doing more, pay attention to how you feel. If you get tired or feel pain, take a break and rest. Don’t rush your recovery – it’s okay to take things slow.

Exercise and Physical Activity Guidelines

Your doctor will give you specific instructions about exercise after your catheter ablation. In general, you should avoid heavy lifting and intense workouts for several weeks. Walking is often a good way to start getting active again. Begin with short, easy walks and slowly make them longer as you feel stronger. Swimming and other activities that put stress on the catheter site should be avoided until your doctor says it’s okay. Always ask your doctor before starting any new exercise routine. They can help you create a safe plan to get back to your regular activities.

Emotional Support and Mental Health

Recovering from a heart procedure can be stressful, and it’s normal to feel worried or down at times. It’s important to take care of your mental health as well as your physical health. Talk to your family and friends about how you’re feeling. They can offer support and help with daily tasks while you recover. If you’re feeling very anxious or sad, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. They might suggest speaking with a counselor or joining a support group for people who have had similar procedures. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Taking care of your mental health can help you feel better and recover faster.

Long-Term Results and Follow-Up

Success Rates and Outcomes

Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation has varying success rates, typically ranging from 60% to 80%. The outcome depends on factors like the patient’s age, overall health, and type of atrial fibrillation. Some patients experience complete elimination of symptoms, while others may see a significant reduction. It’s important to note that success rates tend to be higher for those with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation compared to persistent or long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation.

Follow-up appointments play a crucial role in determining the procedure’s success. During these visits, doctors assess the patient’s heart rhythm, symptoms, and overall well-being. They may use electrocardiograms (ECGs) or other monitoring devices to check for any recurrence of atrial fibrillation. These appointments also provide an opportunity for patients to discuss any concerns or new symptoms they may be experiencing.

Potential Long-Term Complications

While catheter ablation is generally safe, some patients may experience long-term complications. The most common issue is the return of arrhythmias, which occurs in about 20-40% of patients within the first year. This may require additional procedures or adjustments to medication. Other potential long-term complications include:

Pulmonary vein stenosis: Narrowing of the pulmonary veins, which can cause breathing difficulties
Atrial-esophageal fistula: A rare but serious condition where an abnormal connection forms between the heart and esophagus
Phrenic nerve injury: Damage to the nerve that controls the diaphragm, potentially causing breathing problems

Regular monitoring helps doctors identify these complications early, allowing for prompt treatment and better outcomes.

Ongoing Monitoring and Follow-Up Appointments

After catheter ablation, patients typically have several follow-up appointments in the first year. These visits usually occur at 3, 6, and 12 months post-procedure. During these appointments, doctors perform various tests to assess heart function and rhythm. These may include:

Electrocardiograms (ECGs)
Holter monitors: Portable devices worn for 24-48 hours to record heart activity
Event recorders: Devices used for longer periods to capture irregular heart rhythms

Doctors may also adjust medications based on the patient’s progress and symptoms. Some patients may need to continue taking blood thinners or anti-arrhythmic drugs for a period after the procedure.

Lifestyle Adjustments for Optimal Results

Making certain lifestyle changes can significantly improve the long-term success of catheter ablation. Some key adjustments include:

Maintaining a heart-healthy diet: Eating foods low in saturated fat and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support overall heart health.
Regular exercise: Engaging in moderate physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week can help maintain a healthy weight and improve cardiovascular function.
Stress management: Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress, which is a known trigger for atrial fibrillation.
Limiting alcohol and caffeine: Both substances can trigger atrial fibrillation episodes in some people, so reducing intake may be beneficial.
Quitting smoking: Smoking increases the risk of heart disease and can interfere with the healing process after ablation.

By making these lifestyle adjustments, patients can improve their overall heart health and potentially reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation recurrence.

FAQs and Additional Resources

Common Questions and Answers

What is catheter ablation?
Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat atrial fibrillation. During this treatment, doctors insert thin, flexible tubes called catheters into blood vessels and guide them to the heart. Once in place, these catheters deliver energy to destroy small areas of heart tissue that are causing irregular heartbeats. This process aims to restore a normal heart rhythm and improve the patient’s quality of life.
What are the risks of catheter ablation?
While catheter ablation is generally safe, it does carry some risks. These include bleeding at the site where the catheter is inserted, infection, and damage to blood vessels. In rare cases, patients may experience new or worsening heart rhythm problems. There’s also a small risk of more serious complications, such as stroke or heart damage. However, doctors carefully weigh these risks against the benefits of the procedure for each patient.
How long does the procedure take?
The duration of a catheter ablation procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the patient’s condition. Typically, it takes between 3 to 6 hours. Simple cases might be shorter, while more complex cases could take longer. The medical team will provide a more accurate estimate based on the individual patient’s situation. Patients should plan to spend most of the day at the hospital for preparation and recovery.
What can I expect during recovery?
After catheter ablation, patients usually need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for several weeks. Most people can return to light, normal activities within a few days. However, it’s important to follow the doctor’s specific instructions. Patients may experience some chest discomfort or fatigue during the first week. Full recovery can take up to 3 months. Regular follow-up appointments will help monitor progress and ensure the procedure was successful.

Additional Resources for Further Learning

American Heart Association: Atrial Fibrillation – This website offers comprehensive information about atrial fibrillation, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Visitors can find easy-to-understand articles, videos, and patient stories.
Mayo Clinic: Catheter Ablation – The Mayo Clinic provides detailed explanations of the catheter ablation procedure, including how to prepare, what to expect during the treatment, and recovery tips. Their expert-reviewed content is reliable and patient-friendly.
WebMD: Catheter Ablation for AFib – WebMD offers a straightforward overview of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. The site includes information on the procedure’s effectiveness, potential risks, and what patients should discuss with their doctors.

Support Groups and Online Communities

Atrial Fibrillation Support Group: This online community brings together people living with atrial fibrillation. Members can share experiences, ask questions, and offer support to one another. The group often discusses topics like managing symptoms, treatment options, and lifestyle adjustments.
Heart Rhythm Society: This professional organization provides resources for both healthcare providers and patients. They offer educational materials about heart rhythm disorders, including atrial fibrillation. The society also hosts patient-focused events and webinars to help people learn more about their condition and treatment options.

Conclusion

Catheter ablation has proven to be a highly effective treatment option for many people struggling with atrial fibrillation. This procedure offers patients the potential to restore a normal heart rhythm and significantly improve their quality of life. By creating small scars in the heart tissue, doctors can block the abnormal electrical signals that cause irregular heartbeats.

Understanding the details of the catheter ablation procedure is crucial for patients considering this treatment. Knowing what to expect before, during, and after the procedure can help reduce anxiety and improve overall outcomes. It’s important for patients to be aware of the potential benefits, such as reduced symptoms and decreased reliance on medications, as well as the possible risks, including bleeding or infection.

The recovery process following catheter ablation is an essential part of the treatment journey. Patients should be prepared for a period of rest and gradual return to normal activities. Following their doctor’s instructions carefully during recovery can help ensure the best possible results from the procedure.

By educating themselves about catheter ablation, patients can make informed decisions about their treatment options. This knowledge empowers them to have meaningful discussions with their healthcare providers and actively participate in their care plan. With proper preparation and realistic expectations, patients can approach catheter ablation with confidence and optimism for a healthier future.

References

WebMD. (2023, February 5). Catheter Ablation for Afib: Purpose, Procedure, Risks, Recovery. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/catheter-ablation-afib-atrial-fibrillation
NYU Langone. (n.d.). Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation & Atrial Flutter. Retrieved from https://nyulangone.org/conditions/atrial-fibrillation-atrial-flutter/treatments/catheter-ablation-for-atrial-fibrillation-atrial-flutter
Mayo Clinic. (2024, February 2). Cardiac ablation. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cardiac-ablation/about/pac-20384993
Mayo Clinic. (2024, April 9). Atrial fibrillation ablation. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/atrial-fibrillation-ablation/about/pac-20384969
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Atrial Fibrillation Ablation. Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/atrial-fibrillation-ablation